From Barcelona to San Sebastián: The Perfect 7-Day Itinerary for Spain’s Foodies
Spain is a culinary paradise, where each region boasts unique flavors, techniques, and traditions. For food lovers, there’s no better journey than exploring Spain’s vibrant gastronomy from Barcelona to San Sebastián. This 7-day itinerary will guide you through Michelin-starred dining, bustling markets, and authentic local experiences, with plenty of opportunities to use points for travel and accommodations along the way.
Day 1-2: Barcelona – Tapas and Traditions
Day 1: Arrival and Evening Tapas Tour
Arrive in Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia and a city known for its creativity and flair—both in architecture and cuisine.
Where to Stay: Use points to book a stay at the W Barcelona or Hyatt Regency Barcelona Tower for stunning views and luxury amenities.
Evening Activity: Embark on a guided tapas tour in the Gothic Quarter. Sample classics like pan con tomate, patatas bravas, and Iberian ham at local favorites like El Xampanyet or Quimet & Quimet.
Pro tip: Pre-book your tapas tour to secure a spot during peak travel seasons.
Day 2: Markets and Michelin Stars
Morning: Start at Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, Barcelona’s iconic market. Wander through stalls of fresh produce, seafood, and Catalan delicacies.
Lunch: Try Tickets, a Michelin-starred restaurant by the Adrià brothers, known for its whimsical and innovative tapas.
Afternoon: Visit the modernist masterpiece, Sagrada Família, and take a stroll through Park Güell.
Dinner: For a fine dining experience, book a table at ABaC Restaurant (three Michelin stars), where chef Jordi Cruz creates magic with local ingredients.
Day 3-4: Valencia – Paella’s Birthplace
Day 3: Travel to Valencia and Paella Cooking Class
Take a short train ride or flight to Valencia, the home of paella.
Where to Stay: Redeem Marriott points at the Palau de la Mar or stay at a boutique hotel in the historic center.
Afternoon Activity: Join a paella cooking class to learn the secrets of this iconic dish, from selecting the right rice to perfecting the sofrito.
Evening: Stroll through the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a seaside restaurant like La Pepica, known for its traditional paella.
Day 4: Markets and Horchata
Morning: Explore the Central Market of Valencia, a stunning modernist building where you can taste fresh local products like jamón, cheeses, and turrón.
Snack Break: Sip on refreshing horchata (a sweet tiger nut milk drink) paired with fartons (soft pastries).
Afternoon: Relax at Malvarrosa Beach or rent a bike to explore the Turia Gardens.
Dinner: Head to Riff, a Michelin-starred restaurant that blends Mediterranean flavors with modern techniques.
Day 5-6: Bilbao – Art and Basque Cuisine
Day 5: Arrival and Pintxos Crawl
Fly or take a train to Bilbao, the gateway to Basque Country.
Where to Stay: Use points for a stay at the Gran Hotel Domine, located near the iconic Guggenheim Museum.
Evening Activity: Experience a pintxos crawl in the Casco Viejo (Old Town). These bite-sized Basque snacks are perfect for hopping between bars. Don’t miss Bar Gure Toki or Café Iruña.
Day 6: Art and Culinary Innovation
Morning: Visit the Guggenheim Museum, an architectural marvel filled with contemporary art.
Lunch: Dine at Nerua Guggenheim, a Michelin-starred restaurant located within the museum, focusing on innovative Basque cuisine.
Afternoon: Stroll along the Nervión River or take a funicular ride to Mount Artxanda for panoramic views of the city.
Dinner: Try Etxanobe Atelier, known for its theatrical approach to fine dining.
Day 7: San Sebastián – The Culinary Capital
Take a short ride to San Sebastián, renowned for having one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-starred restaurants per capita in the world.
Where to Stay: Use points at Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection property, for a glamorous stay in the heart of the city.
Morning: Wander through the Old Town (Parte Vieja) and sample more pintxos at local institutions like Bar Nestor or La Cuchara de San Telmo.
Lunch: Splurge on a tasting menu at Arzak or Akelarre, both of which hold three Michelin stars.
Afternoon: Relax at La Concha Beach or hike to Monte Igueldo for breathtaking coastal views.
Evening: End your trip with a casual pintxos crawl in the Gros neighborhood, known for its trendy bars and innovative offerings.
Conclusion: A Feast for the Senses
From the vibrant tapas bars of Barcelona to the world-class restaurants of San Sebastián, this 7-day itinerary offers a taste of Spain’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re learning to cook paella, indulging in Michelin-starred dining, or savoring pintxos with locals, every bite tells a story. By leveraging points and miles for travel and accommodations, you can make this foodie dream trip both luxurious and affordable.
Have you explored Spain’s culinary scene? Share your favorite dishes and dining experiences in the comments, or tag us in your foodie photos on Instagram at @roaming.cactus. Let’s keep savoring the world, one plate at a time!
